Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $2,899

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head is the go-to choice for musicians seeking a versatile, high-performance bass amplifier. This amplifier is a homage to the classic tube bass amps, combining a broad tonal range with robust build quality. From clean and smooth to overdriven and growling, CTM-300 delivers a diverse array of tones with six KT-88 power tubes ensuring remarkable punch and power.

The CTM-300 is not just about raw power. It's equipped with a variety of tone controls and switches including deep, mid-shift, and bright switches, enabling you to fine-tune and sculpt your perfect tone. This amplifier is hand-built in the U.K and features an 18mm Marine-grade birch-ply cabinet, ensuring superior durability and reliable performance even in the most demanding gigging situations.

Whether you're aiming for a mellow '60s tone, a roaring '70s-style bass, or a modern thick and potent sound, the CTM-300 has got you covered. It also features a tube-driven, transformer-derived DI output with an isolated ground for maximum sonic purity, making it perfect for direct recording or plugging directly into the sound system.

Key Features:

  • 300-watt tube bass amp head with tube-driven, transformer-derived DI output
  • Perfect for live performance and direct recording
  • 6 KT-88 power amp tubes for amazing punch, impact, and headroom
  • Tube-driven effects loop for enhancing your tone
  • Dual-function front panel VU meter
  • Dual inputs for active and passive basses
  • Handbuilt in the U.K with an 18mm Marine-grade birch-ply cabinet for unbeatable durability
  • Extensive tone-shaping capabilities with standard tone controls and additional deep, mid-shift, and bright switches

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels 1
Output Power 300W
EQ 3-band, Mellow/Deep/Shift/Bright Switches
Preamp Tubes 2 x ECC832, 2 x ECC82, 1 x ECC99
Power Tubes 6 x KT88
Inputs 2 x 1/4" (High, Low)
Outputs 3 x speakON (2 ohms/4 ohms/8 ohms), 1 x XLR (DI)
Effects Loop Yes
Cooling System Internal Fan, Rear/Top Air Vents
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 9.5"
Width 23"
Depth 13"
Weight 72.75 lbs.

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Ashdown CTM-300 use?

The Ashdown CTM-300 uses 2 ECC832, 2 ECC82, and 1 ECC99 preamp tubes, along with 6 KT88 power tubes for its robust tube-driven sound.

How many output options does the Ashdown CTM-300 offer?

The Ashdown CTM-300 provides three speakON outputs supporting 2 ohms, 4 ohms, and 8 ohms, as well as an XLR DI output for flexible connectivity.

Does the Ashdown CTM-300 have an effects loop?

Yes, the Ashdown CTM-300 features an effects loop, allowing you to integrate your effects pedals seamlessly into your signal chain.

What kind of tone shaping options are available on the Ashdown CTM-300?

The Ashdown CTM-300 includes a 3-band EQ with Mellow, Deep, Shift, and Bright switches, offering versatile tone shaping capabilities for different playing styles and environments.

Is the Ashdown CTM-300 suitable for live performances?

With its 300-watt output and robust tube configuration, the Ashdown CTM-300 is well-suited for live performances, providing ample power and tonal clarity for gigging bassists.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Ashdown Amp Review With Founder Mark Gooday | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Video thumbnail for Ashdown Amp Review With Founder Mark Gooday | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar by Chicago Music Exchange

Ashdown Amp Review With Founder Mark Gooday | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Ashdown Artist: Andrew Perusi – Ashdown CTM300 by Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown Artist: Andrew Perusi – Ashdown CTM300

Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown Engineering

Video thumbnail for Ashdown CTM-300 Bass Head First Look at NAMM 2012 by DV247 Music Store UK TV

Ashdown CTM-300 Bass Head First Look at NAMM 2012

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head.

Features and functionality

  • Ashdown offers the CTM-300 head, noted for its rarity and strong desire among enthusiasts, alongside 15, 30, and 100-watt versions for varied needs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The CTM-300 is often compared to similar all-tube heads like the Ampeg V4B, which offers a lighter but equally powerful alternative.

    Source
  • The Yamaha YBA200-2 is recommended over the original YBA200, as it resolves known tube biasing issues, highlighting the importance of model selection.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently monitor the used market for Ashdown models like the CTM-15 and Lil Bastard, indicating high demand and satisfaction with these models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Ashdown CTM-30 is favored for home use due to its manageable power output, offering tube warmth without excessive volume.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ashdown Classic Tube Magnifier CTM-300 Amp Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head showcases a powerful blend of vintage charm and modern convenience, delivering a rich tube tone that's both clean and beautifully overdriven. Its thoughtful layout, including a self-biasing feature and a VU meter, adds to its appeal for bassists seeking reliability and ease of use. However, the passive EQ can be frustratingly temperamental, requiring extensive tweaking to achieve the desired sound, which might deter some players given its hefty price tag. Despite these drawbacks, its overall performance makes it a strong contender in the world of tube amplifiers.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick O'Malley uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Nick O'Malley

Bassist

Arctic Monkeys

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Nick's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Nate Mendel uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Nate Mendel

Bassist

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Nate's official Ashdown artist page.

See how James Lomenzo uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

James Lomenzo

Bassist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on James' official Ashdown artist page.

See how Dave Hollingworth uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Dave Hollingworth

Guitarist, Bassist

Dorje

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Dave's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Jah Wobble uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Jah Wobble

Bassist

Public Image Ltd

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Jah Wobble's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Brian Ray uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Brian Ray

Singer, Guitarist

Paul McCartney (Live Band)

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Brian's official Ashdown artist page.

See how James Johnstone uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

James Johnstone

Singer, Bassist

Biffy Clyro

...
Verified via GITARRE & BASS

James used Ashdown CTM-300 Head in 'Ellipsis' album

See how Jeremy Pritchard uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Jeremy Pritchard

Bassist

Everything Everything

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Jeremy's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Michael Rhodes uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Michael Rhodes

Bassist

The Notorious Cherry Bombs

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Michael's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Jimbo Hart uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Jimbo Hart

Bassist, Music Producer

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

he is listed as using this on ashdown's website

See how Nick Seymour uses Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head

Nick Seymour

Bassist

Crowded House

...
Verified via Photo

As per Nick's artist page on Ashdown's website, Nick is described as using the CTM-300 Head.

Album Usage

The Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ashdown Engineering CTM-300 Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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